Sylvain Distin has indicated he could extend his stay at Manchester City.

The 29-year-old French defender is out of contract in the summer and yet to pen a new deal. It has led to constant speculation his days at the club are numbered, with the player linked to a move to Middlesbrough at the beginning of the season.

Distin said: "Many clubs want me. It's nice but I don't rule out staying at City. I consider myself lucky to be playing in the Premiership, both from a financial and a sporting point of view. Here the whole stadium cheers when there's a good tackle."

Distin believes he is improving day by day.

He said: "I have only felt like a true professional for three seasons, because now I take care of myself more. I stay after training for stretching sessions. For a long time I was happy only doing what I was good at and I relied a lot on physical strength." Distin caught the eye when his stunning solo run and goal sealed a recent victory against Aston Villa, but he is disappointed the feat was overlooked in his homeland.

"If a French international had scored that goal, it would have been played non-stop on French TV," said Distin. "In England there are some French players that are low-profile compared to some others. Some like to show off, some are more discreet." Meanwhile, Republic of Ireland midfielder Stephen Ireland is expected to come into contention for the FA Cup match against Sheffield Wednesday on Sunday.

In-form Ireland was forced to sit out the victory over Everton on New Year's Day because of a hamstring injury. He is now on the mend and manager Stuart Pearce said: "Fingers crossed he will be available for Sunday. I hope so, for his sake, because when you eventually get a bit of a run in a team it is nice to keep it going."